Lynn Donath Remembers Growing Up in Park Forest October 5, 2001

I have just spent an enjoyable few hours reading about Park Forest - past and present. My family moved to P.F. in 1951. We spent many years on Michael Road, jealously watching the houses going up behind us on Chestnut Street! For a short time we lived on Rocket Circle near the high school, and then to a court on Western Ave. Mostly, I recall the early years of playing outside until dark, loads of kids of all ages everywhere, and the sense of freedom that feeling safe and 'at home' in my community imparted. I can't remember our ever having to lock our doors.

My fondest memories revolve around walking to the shopping center with friends, the Holiday (movie theater), the forest preserve behind my house, the pavillions there, and our 'coming of age' - going with my girlfriends to Mickelberry's for lunch at 12 years old! Despite the fact that my life has taken me far from Park Forest, in fact I have spent the past 30 years raising 5 children on a kibbutz in Israel, Park Forest has had a tremendous influence on me and who I've evolved into! I appreciate your rich website.

Sincerely, Lynn Donath
Kibbutz Sasa ISRAEL